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BNP opens talks with left-leaning parties

By Rezaul Karim
The BNP has initiated talks with left-leaning and other progressive political parties to launch a greater anti-government movement on the basis of issues of common concern.
A highly placed source at BNP told the Daily Star yesterday that party Secretary- general Abdul Mannan Bhuivan. with the nod of Leader of the Opposition and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia. has already held talks with some top leaders of the 11 -party alliance.
During the meetings, the BNP secretary-general discussed the country’s latest political situation, government s "undemocratic" activities and deteriorating law and order among other Issues, sources said.
The BNP informed the parties about Its plan for a longterm political and economic programmes under which all
the political and social forces would be made a party to the anti-government movement.
it also hinted at the possibility of contesting next parliamentary polls through an electoral alliance and a national government to ensure political stability.
The party secretary-general is scheduled to hold meeting with Gano Forum leader Sai-fuddin Ahmed Manik today, sources said.
They said the main opposition party has decided to take a step beyond the periphery of the four-party alliance and build a broad-based unity ahead of the next general election instead of embarking on the traditional election strategy of seat sharing
BNP sources said liberal party leaders have convinced the chairperson that BNP Is not a radical party nor is it an ultra-rightist one. The party will have to face dire consequences if it maintains relations only with the ultra-right wing parties.
A senior BNP leader said some party leaders are now busy preparing a set of political and economic programmes giving thrusts on upholding fundamental rights of the people, political stability, curbing terrorism. strengthening democratic institutions and rule of law, and eliminating corruption.
Accent would also be put on social service sectors like health, housing, education and employment. The programmes will also entail a pledge that there will be no political programme that may disrupt national life.
He said once the draft is prepared. BNP will hold talks with all political parties, who do not subscribe to the "undemocratic and repressive’’ activities of the Awaml League government, before finalising the election agenda.
Another top leader said many political leaders, civil society men and social workers are appreciating BNP's ap proach. He believes the party will get a positive response from the left-leaning parties.